In 2001, Joseph Taylor, K1JT, released WSJT (Weak Signal Communication by K1JT), a groundbreaking suite of digital communication protocols designed for amateur radio. Developed to facilitate communication under extremely weak signal conditions, WSJT includes modes like JT65, JT9, and FT8, each optimized for different types of propagation and communication needs. These protocols use sophisticated error-correcting codes and narrow bandwidths to achieve reliable communication with minimal signal strength, enabling contacts over long distances and in challenging conditions. Taylor’s development of WSJT has significantly expanded the capabilities of amateur radio, allowing operators to make contacts during low-power operations and poor propagation conditions, and has been widely adopted by the amateur radio community for its effectiveness and reliability.
